Sahabi Zayyanu Yabo, a PhD at St. Petersburg State University: “Studying here is like building a bridge.”

Sahabi Zayyanu Yabo from Sokoto State, Nigeria, studies at the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of Polytechnic University.

— Yabo, why did you choose Russia and Polytechnic University to study?

— I chose Russia because of its high-quality education system and world-renowned professors. Polytechnic University attracted me with its strong reputation in technical sciences. And I can say that the curriculum has exceeded all my expectations: it is difficult, but very interesting and provides a lot of practical knowledge.

— If you could give advice to yourself at the beginning of your studies, what would you say?

— I would advise myself to understand the material more deeply, and not just memorize it. Ask questions from the very beginning, allocate time wisely and not be afraid of mistakes — real knowledge comes through them.

— They say that student life changes a person a lot. What useful habit have you developed here?

— The most useful habit I’ve acquired here is time management. The ability to plan my studies, set priorities, and find a balance between classes and rest helped me become more focused and reduce my workload.

— What helps you cope with such a busy program?

— The university’s teaching aids, laboratory equipment and materials, help me a lot. Together with time management, this makes learning much more effective.

— Funny stories often happen in language learning and adaptation. Have you ever had this?

— At the beginning of my studies, I tried to say the word «teacher», but I put the emphasis on the wrong syllable. It turned out to be a completely different word! The teacher smiled and gently corrected me. We had a laugh, and since then I’ve remembered exactly how to speak correctly.

— It’s a beautiful comparison: learning is like building a bridge...

— Yes, I think so. Studying here is like building a bridge: step by step, with a solid foundation, and each discipline and semester is another step towards the future.

— What is your impression of the university’s teachers?

—Polytechnic University teachers are not only experts in their fields, but also sensitive mentors who are sincerely interested in the success of their students.

— Support is very important away from home. Did you manage to find friends in Russia?

— Yes, of course. I have found wonderful friends here, and over time they have become more than just friends for me, now they are like family.

— What struck you most about Russia, which is not present in your homeland?

— I was particularly struck by two things: the pronounced seasons, especially snowy winters, which we do not have in Sokoto, and the deep respect for academic traditions here, for example, celebrations and close communication between students and teachers. It feels special.

— Share your plans for the future. What are you planning to do?

— After PhD, I plan to work both in universities and in industry — here in Russia and in Nigeria. I want to teach and mentor students in the field of aerospace technology, as well as participate in research and development in the aerospace industry.